Best Italian Seasoning Substitute with 4 ingredients

Are you looking for the perfect Italian seasoning substitute to compliment your meal?  I'm sharing my four-ingredient recipe that is absolutely foolproof. You can make it in a small batch or scale it up! I use the Italian favorite combination of Basil, Oregano, Rosemary, and Thyme. This post includes a very simple one-step recipe and frequently asked questions about Italian seasoning substitutes.

What is Italian seasoning made of?

Italian seasoning is made of a combination of spices commonly found in Italian cooking. Typically, these include basil, oregano, rosemary, parsley, thyme, and marjoram. Some Italian seasonings also include black pepper, garlic powder, or crushed red pepper flakes. 

Can I substitute oregano for Italian seasoning?

Oregano is not the same as Italian seasoning because Italian seasoning refers to a combination of spices, rather than a single spice substitution. While some people will try to use oregano as a direct substitute for Italian seasoning, the flavor is often very strong and off-balance. I recommend a blend of Basil, Oregano, Rosemary, and Thyme. 

If you find yourself in a pinch, a 50-50 split of dried basil and dried oregano makes a more balanced substitute for Italian seasoning than oregano by itself.

How do you make Italian seasoning from scratch?

To make the best Italian Seasoning from scratch:

1. Gather dried unground versions of the following spices: basil, oregano, rosemary, and thyme. 
2. In a small jar, mix together 1 teaspoon basil, 1 teaspoon oregano, ½ teaspoon rosemary, and ½ teaspoon thyme.

That’s it!

Best Substitutes for Italian Seasoning

Just in case you're missing an ingredient, here are a few options for Italian Seasoning Substitutes:

1. Basil, Oregano, Thyme, and Rosemary blend in the ratio of 2:2:1:1

Don't be spooked by the ratio -- that's just the recipe in this post. See the recipe card below for measurements in teaspoons.

2. A 50-50 mix of dried Basil and dried Oregano

This blend misses the depth added by Thyme and Rosemary, but it is still a lovely combination that will add the burst of Italian flavor you're looking for!

3. Test and try different spices

Start with small amounts, and then add your Italian-inspired favorites for the perfect flavor! Start with basil, then give oregano, thyme, rosemary, marjoram, and garlic powder a sniff to see if they will complement the dish.

According to Science World: "Our sense of smell is responsible for about 80% of what we taste." So if it smells good, there's a good chance it will taste good too!

Pro Tip: Hold several spice jars together at once and sniff above them to experience the combination. Or hold one spice at a time near the recipe you're already preparing to smell the new spice with the existing flavors.

Best ways to use Italian seasoning:

1. Add it to a scramble or frittata
2. Sprinkle it over simple chicken dishes
3. Use it as a meat rub or marinade 
4. Sprinkle some over a simple pasta with butter or olive oil 
5. Use it in meatballs
6. Add it to pasta sauces 
7. Sprinkle it over pizza or salad

Recipes that use Italian Seasoning:

• House Favorite Vegan Minestrone Soup

Best Italian Seasoning Substitute Recipe

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Now all you need is a glass of prosecco while you cook that finished dish!

Ciao, Jamie